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Orange Date Squares

Orange Date Squares
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Easy and chewy Orange Date Squares combine the natural sweetness of soft dates with the bright, zesty flavor of fresh orange zest and juice. These wholesome squares use simple pantry staples to create a moist, tender dessert or snack that’s perfect for any occasion. With a chewy oat and whole wheat crust, a luscious orange-date filling, and a crumbly topping, this recipe balances sweetness and texture beautifully. Ideal for bakers of all skill levels, these squares are easily adaptable for dietary needs including gluten-free and vegan options.

Ingredients

Scale

Filling

  • 1 cup soft, pitted dates, finely chopped
  • 1/3 cup fresh orange juice

Oat Crust and Topping

  • 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated orange zest
  • 1/2 cup cold butter or vegan alternative, cut into pieces
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Date Filling: Finely chop the dates and place them in a saucepan with the fresh orange juice. Heat gently over low heat, stirring frequently until the mixture thickens into a sticky, jam-like consistency, forming the luscious filling.
  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, whole wheat flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and freshly grated orange zest. This mix will form both the base and crumbly topping.
  3. Cut in the Butter: Add the cold butter (or vegan alternative) to the dry ingredients and cut it in using a pastry cutter, fingers, or two forks until the mixture becomes crumbly and sandy, creating a tender crust.
  4. Assemble the Squares: Press about two-thirds of the oat mixture evenly into a greased baking pan to create the base layer. Spread the warm date-orange filling evenly over this layer, then sprinkle the remaining oat mixture on top to form a crumbly topping.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and slightly firm while the filling remains soft and chewy inside.
  6. Cool and Cut: Allow the squares to cool completely in the pan to set properly before cutting into neat squares for clean slices.

Notes

  • Use fresh, soft dates for the best texture; older, harder dates may require soaking first.
  • Don’t omit the orange zest: it brightens and balances the rich sweetness.
  • Press the oat base firmly into the pan to avoid crumbling when slicing.
  • Cool completely before slicing to ensure clean, firm squares.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate up to a week.
  • For longer storage, freeze wrapped squares for up to 3 months.
  • For vegan adaptation, use coconut oil or vegan margarine instead of butter and plant-based milk if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: orange date squares, chewy dessert bars, gluten-free dessert, vegan orange bars, healthy orange snacks, date and orange recipe

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/orange-date-squares/